Beowulf

Beowulf exemplifies traits of perfect hero. The poem explores his heroism in two separate phases—youth as well as age—as well as through three separate as well as increasingly difficult conflicts—with Grendel, Grendel's mother, as well as dragon. Although we can view these three encounters as expressions of heroic code, there is perhaps a clearer division between Beowulf's youthful heroism as an unfettered warrior as well as his mature heroism as a reliable king. These two phases of his life, separated by fifty years, correspond to two different models of virtue, as well as much of moral reflection in story centers on differentiating these two models as well as on showing how Beowulf makes transition from one to other.

In his youth, Beowulf is a great warrior, characterized predominantly by his feats of strength as well as courage, including his fabled swimming match against Breca. He also perfectly embodies manners as well as values dictated by Germanic heroic code, including loyalty, courtesy, as well as pride. His defeat of Grendel as well as Grendel's mother validates his reputation for bravery as well as establishes him fully as a hero. In first part of poem, Beowulf matures little, as he possesses heroic qualities in abundance from start. Having purged Denmark of its plagues as well as established himself as a hero, however, he is ready to enter into a new phase of his life. Hrothgar, who becomes a mentor as well as father figure to young warrior, begins to deliver advice about how to act as a wise ruler. Though Beowulf does not become king for many years, his exemplary career as a warrior has served in part to prepare him for his ascension to throne.

The second part of story, set in Geatlas well as, skips over middle of Beowulf's career as well as focuses on very end of his life. Through a series of retrospectives, however, we recover much of what happens during this gap as well as therefore are able to see how Beowulf comports himself as both a warrior as well as a king. The period following Hygelac's death is an important transitional moment for Beowulf. Instead of rushing for throne himself, as Hrothulf does in Denmark, he supports Hygelac's son, rightful heir. With this gesture of loyalty as well as respect for throne, he proves himself worthy of kingship.

In final episode—encounter with dragon—poet reflects further on how responsibilities of a ...